Jim Knowlton to Retire as Cal Athletic Director After Seven Years
California's athletic director, Jim Knowlton, confirmed his retirement on Monday, effective July 1, marking the end of a seven-year tenure filled with significant challenges and achievements.
During his time at the helm, Knowlton navigated the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations, and the seismic shifts in conference alignments that ultimately led the Golden Bears to join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) after the dissolution of the Pac-12.
Taking office on May 21, 2018, Knowlton oversaw a period where Cal athletes secured ten national championships and over 100 competitors represented the university at two Summer Olympics.
"Serving at the University of California, Berkeley, the No. 1 public university in the country, has been an incredible honor," Knowlton stated. "The expectation of holistic excellence drives everyone associated with the university, and our department is no exception. The combination of a world-class education, athletic excellence, an inclusive community, an awe-inspiring location, and truly special people make Cal a magnificent place to serve."
However, high-profile sports did not mirror this success. The football team reached four bowl games during his tenure but has struggled to maintain a winning record since 2019.
In men's basketball, Knowlton hired two coaches; neither achieved a winning season. Mark Fox was brought on board in 2019 but was dismissed after four seasons with a dismal 38-87 record.
Under Mark Madsen's leadership, the program has shown some improvement yet still holds a 27-38 record.
In women's basketball, Charmin Smith was appointed in 2019. After four seasons of losing records, she led the Bears to a turnaround with a 19-15 finish in 2023-24 and an NCAA Tournament appearance this past season, concluding with a 25-9 record despite a first-round exit.
Following Knowlton's announcement, UC Berkeley Chancellor Rich Lyons appointed current deputy athletic directors Jay Larson and Jenny Simon-O'Neill as co-directors to lead the athletic program into its next chapter.
